Desert Illustrated November Issue

DESERT ILLUSTRATED November 2019 Edition

THE NIGHT OF VICTORY Everything you need to know about our big win at the homecoming game

COACHES MAKE A DIFFERENCE

How the bond between a coach and their team can impact the lives of students THE VETERANS AT DESERT OASIS

Take a moment to appreciate the staff members who served our country

Table of Contents TL

4-5: HOME OF THE FREE BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE 6: STEPS TO ENLIST, STEPS TO PROTECT 7-8: ITS ONE FOR THE ACTS 9-10: GET CAUGHT STAY CAUGHT 11-12: COACHES CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE 13: STEPS TO GRADUATE EARLY 14: FOUR YEARS WORTH THE WAIT 15-16: THE NIGHT OF VICTORY 17: HOW TO: FRIENDSGIVING 18-19: GATHER AROUND THE TABLE 20-21: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

Table of Contents TL

22: IT'S OKAY THEY'LL THROW IT AWAY 23-24: THE DRINK THAT CREATES TENSION 25-26: THE MONTH THAT ACKNOWLEDGES EPILEPSY 27-28: EXCUSE ME MOM- I MEAN MS. 29-30: GRADUATING JUST GOT 50% EASIER 31-32: THE F I NEEDED

HOME OF THE FREE

BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE

By Arianna Leuer

Desert Oasis’ Assistant Principal

“We used to make the Bradley

"It was scary, yes, it was

Ms. Miller, who served in the United

fighting vehicle, and 113 personnel

frightening,” she explains, “But I

States Marine Corps as an

and several amphibious vehicles that

wanted to be prepared, and I needed to

international Defense Contractor,

the Marine Corps uses,” explains

know what I was doing. Being a

knows that it takes an enormous

Miller. “When the Desert Storm

woman, I couldn’t go to a lot of places

amount of commitment to be in the

situation came through, they needed

unescorted, and I had to honor that

Military. Not only is it a job, it’s a

us to be over in Saudi Arabia and in

because it’s their country. I had to be

lifestyle.

close proximity [to uncertain].”

fully covered up, and that was an

“Every once in a while, I get a

At the time, both Miller and her

interesting experience."

To go more in-depth, being placed

little teary,” Ms. Karmen Miller said.

team didn’t feel comfortable enough

“I have a lot of respect for our

to send anyone over to Saudi Arabia

in a situation where the brotherhood

military, because they’re doing what

especially without the proper training.

you’ve established is threatened, you

their country has asked them to do,

So in preparation for leaving, they

begin to look at things differently; you

and they’re willing to give up so much

were put into the accelerated marine

begin to see them from a perspective

to do it.”

boot camp. Marines boot camp is

you might not have experienced before.

considered one of the most difficult

It really teaches you to be more

basic training programs of the U.S

appreciative of what you have.

So on November 11th, we must honor those who have dedicated themselves to fighting and protecting our country. It is important that we use this as an opportunity to recognize the courage these soldiers have.

Ms. Miller was living in California at the time she began her involvement with the Marine Corps, right before the Desert Storm conflict in 1990. Desert Storm, also known as the Gulf War, began on August 2nd of that year. It was a war led by the U.S against Iraq. In response to Iraq’s invasion and annexation of Kuwait.

Military. Not to mention that it’s also

"A lot of people were starving and

a 13-week program of initial training.

hungry," she explains, "the opportunity

“That obstacle course in San

to learn about other cultures, I may not

Diego is no joke, man,” laughs Ms.

agree with certain things, but it made

Miller. “But I remember my DA told

me more understanding and more open.

me ‘You have a natural affinity

It broadened my perspective. I may not

towards weapons’, so I was quite the

have, for political reasons, supported us

sharpshooter.”

being involved in there, but I had the

Though, even with her skill using

utmost respect for the men and women

an M16, stress was still something that

I had the opportunity to work with, and

she had experienced quite a lot in the

with what we were trying to do, I think

military – especially with being in a

we were very blessed that it wasn’t a

foreign country.

long-term conflict.”

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DESERT ILLUSTRATED

Overall, being apart of this experience is something that will stick

Ms. Miller served in the United

with her for the rest of her life. She

States Marine Corps as an

still keeps one of the flags that had

International Defense

been flown over her camp, as well as

Contractor.

clothing and other keepsakes from her time in the service.

“I really think it was a great experience and it made me change my whole perspective about things in the process,” she says. “It’s real interesting when I watch some of our own students who decide to go into the Marine Corps.”

In fact, she isn’t the first in her family to honor our country. In all actuality, Ms. Miller comes from quite a large family of veterans.

“My dad, who passed away two years ago, he was a Vietnam Vet,” She

Mr. Powell served in the United States Navy Vietnam Theatre for three years. Their position was to eliminate warships and any enemy that would attack their forces.

recalls, a sad smile on her face, “He flew two presidents, so Veterans Day is a big thing in our family. My brother is an Afghanistan Vet and my uncle

Mr. Seibel served in the United

was a Vietnam vet. We just have a lot

States Army involved in the 11

of people in our family who’s been in

Echo mission, which deals with

the military.”

how to handle tanks.

Veterans day is a day of pride, and a day of holding in great respect those who have served for their country. With honor and gratitude, we thank you.

Mr. Kastelein served in the United States Army for thirtyeight years. While maintaining many positions, he served as the commander for several of those years.

S T E P S

T O

E N L I S T ,

S T E P S

T O

P R O E C T

Are you looking into devoting yourself to you country? Well it’s surprisingly easier than you think. Devoting yourself to serve in the military is has a particular process until you finally are enlisted and on your way to defend

BY ELIZABETH BOREK

our country.

Step 1: Take The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery(ASVAB): it's a multiple choice exam that help determine the careers which an individual is best suited. The ASVAB test is offered here at D.O. They are having sign up in November. The higher your score, the better the job will be in the military. You can even get a book to study for the book. The ASVAB practicing books is filled with hefty information and is practically limit less.

After you take the test, the military comes back and reviews your scores with you.

Step 2: Pass The Physical Examination: During your physical examination you're required to take a height and weight measurements, hearing and vision examinations, urine and blood test, drug and alcohol test, and muscle group and joint maneuvers. There are also special test if required, such as, pregnancy test.

Step 3: Meet With Mr. Ernest and Determine A Career. When you talk to your counselor about joining the military, they will give you a list of career paths you can take such as Army, Air Force, Navy, or Marines. The enlistment contract is a legally-binding agreement between you and the military that you will sign after picking a career. If you fail to meet the requirements in the enlistment contract, it can pursue potential criminal or civil penalties against you.

Step 4: Take The Oath Of Enlistment: It’s time for the Oath of Enlistment “I (name), do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the constitution of the United States against all enemies, foregin and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the president of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to the regulations and the uniform of military. So help me god.”

Step 5: After The MEPS: Before entering the military, some will be able to go directly into shipping which means you will report to basic training, and you will be provided instructions on transportation. But, some will be put onto the delayed entry program(DEP) which means you will have to complete basic training within a year.

R E C R U I T M E N T O F F I C E S

Air Force Active Duty Recruiting Office phone #: 702-339-0542 Sahara Army Recruiting Station phone #: 702-733-6770 US Navy Recruiting Office phone #: 702-349-9169 US Marine Crops Recruiting phone #: 702-259-3391 National Guard Recruiting phone #: 702-643-4258

1 FOR THE ACTS DESERT OASIS' THEATRE PROGRAM PERFORMS ONE ACTS

By Annya Cunanan

Sitting in my seat, I was excited as the One Act performances were about to begin. I quickly skimmed through the program to get a little insight about the show before it started. The room went dark and the

“I want people to ask questions; I want people to not be sure about what happened at the end; I want it to be left up to the audience’s interpretation,” Mejorada said.

spotlights went onto the stage, signaling the beginning

After Fate Settled, The One At Fault was of the first act.

Fate Settled started off the evening. This act, which was directed by senior Thomas Mejorada, was

up next. This act was directed and written by junior Caleb Ross. In this act, a group of

about the characters Archie, Leon, Charlie, and Brooks

friends were inclined to help a boy who was

who were thrown into a room together and forced to be

the ‘punching bag’ for his family and the

“matched up.” The consequences of refusing to match

people at his school. He also had a voice in his

up is to be killed. The ticking of the clock throughout

head that no one but him could hear that told

the entirety of the act added an ominous vibe that fit very well with the almost creepy and mysterious theme of this one act. After the performance, people were left

him that everything was going to be his fault.

This one act had a very sweet ending with the group of friends telling him that they were

wondering what the One Act was truly about.

always going to be there for him.

Ross said that he wanted to tell

The night ended with Crushed. This

everyone that no matter how bad of a place

One Act was directed by senior Ricardo

you are in, there will always be people there

Chavez but originally written by Don

for you no matter what. In this school,

Zolidis. Crushed went through the Do’s and

different people are going through a lot of

Don’t of dating and the different

different things and the ending truly

stereotypes that both genders ‘typically’

showed that no matter who you are, you are

like.

never alone.

“I was reading through some plays, I read

Next in the lineup, Thirty Minutes Past

through some very dramatic and comedic

Nowhere, directed by Mr. Glass was up

ones, and then I saw the title of this play,

next. This one act was about a group of

Crushed, and I knew it was the one,”

people who got lost in a desert and

Chavez said.

stumbled upon a diner. There were multiple

As the lights went on and the directors

different and interesting characters in the

and actors took their bows, people cheered

play. It ended with all but one of the

on. The one act started off with a very

characters leaving the diner to see the

mysterious mood, but overall left people

various family and friends the characters

with a sense of lightheartedness. The order

were looking for.

was fantastic due to the fact that they left the audience with a very good feeling.

Get Caught Stay Caught

Due to the high number of tardies

"The new policy makes me go to

in the 2018-2019 school year Desert

class because I used to ditch a lot and

Oasis permitted a new tardy policy.

it went on my record and now we get

The new tardy policy consists of a

strictly punished so it really pushes me

tardy lockout every period. Students

to

have approximately 4 minutes to get

student, Ariana Gonzalez “I majorly

to

just don’t want to go, on my personal

class;

therefore,

no

excuses

should be permitted.

they

must

class,”

said

12th

grade

time, to detention.”

Even if a student is 5 seconds late,

attend

to

report

to

the

The majority of students dislike the policy because of the detentions and

nearest hall monitor with the cart

RPC’s.

that holds a computer system that

policy to help cut down on ditching

scans their ID card and gives them a

and absences.

“

detention

slip

with

detention

they

have

students

do

not

the to

day

attend.

report

to

of If the

Administration

made

this

With the thought that instead of just getting

tardies

without

any

consequence, they now you have to be

detention they have to have in-house

more

suspension

their time management in order to get

tardies RPC’d.

for

repeat

the

whole

students

day. will

If be

mindful

to class.

and

responsible

with

There is still the question if this policy

‘‘Obviously there are a lot more

actually helps students get to class or

underclassmen that ditch rather than

entice them to ditch class if they are

upperclassmen.

going to be late?

upperclassmen ditch there is a reason

Typically

when

“The number of tardies went way

for it they had to go to work, they

down this year in my class about 90%, I

were at work late the night before and

have kids that are often tardy if they

just couldn't get up there's just some

have me first thing in the morning but

kind of reason.’’ stated Mr. Whiteman

its gone down a lot,” said

Mr. Paul

Whiteman

Ian Achang [student] is not phased by the policy and actually has been

Mr. Whiteman likes the accountability aspect of the new tardy policy but does

pushed away from classes because of short passing periods.

sympathizes with students who have to walk across campus.

“I have ditched class too

“I would like to see passing periods go from 5 minutes to 7 minutes to give

many times to count because

you guys [the students] that extra time

of this policy, so I have not

to walk through the crowded hallways of 3300 kids to the other end of the building

and

use

the

bathroom

if

gotten detention because of it,"

needed,” said Mr. Whiteman.

Underclassmen choose not to attend

says 11th grade student, Ian Achang,

the first few hours of school or ditch

"This year I already have 13 absences,

class

some I got from this week.”

way

more

than

last

year.

They

don't want to get that tardy and have that detention so they just don't come to class. Freshman and sophomores tend to have more of that issue, not to mention that bathroom breaks taken during class have

increased,

teachers

monitors have noticed.

and

hall

October 28,2019

Coaches Can Make a Difference

INTERVIEWS

I AM THANKFUL FOR MR.P BECAUSE HE'S AN AMAZING COOL

A good coach can change the game, a great coach can change a life

by Jazmyne-Rayne K. Compehos

CHOIR TEACHER- ANIKIN LADANGA

Successful coaches are those that have the ability to maximize the learning potential of all athletes on their

I AM THANKFUL FOR MR.SMITH BECAUSE HE SHOWED ME A LOT OF

team. Developing positive relationships between a coach and athlete is a fundamental aspects of quality coaching

WAYS THAT I CAN EXPRESS MYSELF- JACOB EDWARDS

and athlete learning. The coach-athlete relationship is a performance factor, the quality of any other relationships

I AM THANKFUL FOR MR. CONNELL

is, respect, trust and predictability that exists between two

BECAUSE HE KEPT PUSHING ME TO

people.

ACHIEVE TO MY BEST ABILITIES AND HE WOULD CRY WHEN HE WAS

Some newsletters examined that positive coach-athlete

HAPPY- LYNETTE IBARRA

relationships promote a sense of school belonging and encourage athletes to participate cooperatively. Athletes

I AM THANKFUL FOR MS.THOMAS BECAUSE SHES A CHILL HALL

develop confidence to experiment and succeed in an environment where they are not restricted by the fear of

MONITOR & SHES THERE FOR ME

failure. Coaches are able to assist athletes with motivation WHEN I NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE ABOUT MY FEELINGS - SADIE BARTLEY-PELE

and goal setting, and athletes can turn to them for advice and guidance.

Going Beyond The Court The two people that emphasize this relationship are Emily Ordaz a senior attending Desert Oasis High School and her coach, Erin Warner.

“Ever since I was on the freshman basketball team, [Coach Warner] was the only person that gave me hope,” Emily said. “She always told me to stand up for myself, stay strong, and to never give up on what I want to do.”

Emily is thankful that she has someone to go to. Coach Warner was her first mentor in middle school and she became more of a teacher than a coach her freshman year.

“If I had to tell her thank you, I would tell her that I'll always be there for you even if I'm only your mentee and student,” Emily said. “I'll help you with anything that you need.”

Teachers love their job, they just want to help students graduate, help with personal problems, and help students excel to be their best. Sometimes it’s a hard job, dealing with attitudes, but when students look up to their teachers and coaches, “It makes you feel like this job is worth it and you're impacting their lives,” Warner expressed. “I feel like it's important to give a positive adult role model. It's important for them to see someone in their everyday life that is making good choices, contributing to the society and kindness. It doesn't take much to do those things to be that, kids need people that are really great and good role models.”

BENEFITS Why graduate at 18 When you think about graduating early, you have to think

when you can at 16?

about how many classes you'd be taking on, which is more than your standard 8 classes. You may still be a junior but you're more than likely going to have "senioritis" and not

The thought of graduating early is nothing but pleasant, to be in highschool for 3 years

do your work, which in the end will disappoint both, yourself and your parents. On the other hand, you can get a

instead of 4 may be one of the best things

head start in life. You can start on your career and have

you can do to start your career early. It's

more options on what you want to do when you're older.

definitely worth the challenge. If you really wanted to start your life early and on track, then graduating early is the best path for you. What it takes to graduate early might

HOW MANY CREDITS YOU WILL NEED

not be as hard as you think as long as you stay committed and do what you’re

Yeah, graduating early might be cool and all, but do

supposed to do. It really shows your strength

you really know how to get where you need to be? For

and just how much you're capable of.

you to graduate earlier than your class you will need to

BY: ALIAH ALVAREZ

make sure you take the classes you need, so it's best to start talking with your counselor to see what steps you need to take. For example, you will need 22.5 to 23 credits to graduate, so it’s better to start thinking about it early.

Language arts: 4 credits

T A K E S U M M E R S C H O O L CLASSES Summer is known for giving students a vacation from

Math: 3 credits (including Geometry and Algebra 1)

school, but taking summer school classes is a priority to graduating early. It's a way to help make your school life way easier, and it's a better alternative to taking apex

Science: 3 credits (including Biology and Physical

classes during the school year. Taking one or two

Science)

summer courses every school year may help you graduate early, so while your fellow classmates have a

Social studies: 3.5 credits (including World

year or more to go you can be ahead and do the things

History, US History, and Government)

you love to do, or even get a head start on your career.

Health: 0.5 credit

Physical education: 2 credits

Technology: 0.5 credits

Humanities: 1 credit

Additional credits of electives are required: at least 5 credits

Four Years Worth Waiting

Why Early Graduation is Not the Right Choice.

By Madison Addeo

Since Desert Oasis adopted the block schedule three years ago, students are finding it much easier to graduate early. Students are required to take eight classes per year which allows them to earn credits at a faster rate.

However, even though it appears

easy to graduate early, it does not mean students should, but rather they should attend all four years of high school.

One of the biggest drawbacks to graduating early is that students will

Expenses like these add up and add a lot of stress to students. As a senior, students have the opportunity to take on a part time job when they have fewer classes. If students started saving throughout their senior year, it would

miss out on a whole year of highschool make the money situation a lot easier. events and memories. Senior year is usually a year to remember. Skipping senior year means skipping senior sunrise, prom, custom parking spaces, and all the other special senior events.

These irreplaceable moments are not worth losing.

Another negative thing about

Although some students want to get a head start with their career, they are growing up too fast and need to enjoy being a kid. Kids force themselves into adulthood at such a young age that they don’t even realize what they are missing out on.

Students are going to end up

early graduation is that students will

regretting taking their teenage years

take on student loans at an earlier age.

for granted when they are faced with

The average cost per credit hour in

adulthood and all of the

college is $594, this is a lot of money

responsibilities that come with it.

for new college students, especially younger early highschool graduates.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy your highschool years, because it’s going to be over before you know it.

THE NIGHT OF VICTORY

By Kyle muna

All games should be treated the same, however,

Offensively however quarterback Tyler Stott had

for student athletes the homecoming game is

a field day with 295 passing yards on the game

always much more serious. A game that could be

and a 64% completion rating. Wide receiver

the most important as well as most supported

Janorri Sejour had an amazing performance with 8

game, not only for athletes but the entirety of the

catches the most in school history going for over

student body.

100 yards.

The captains all have very similar gameplans.

“I believe the team did very well by coming

While they all have very different positions and

together through a rough patch that we’ve been

personal assignments they had a few things in

going through. We started slow in the first drive,

common, study film, execute, and come out with

as soon as we scored in the second drive the pedal

a W. For them the homecoming game is a big

went to the floor and never came up.” said Senior

deal.

captain Brandon Cuevas.

“It attracts a bigger crowd, it increases the

The team competed very well on all sides of the

stakes of the game, we not only have to put on a

ball, throughout the whole game. While a few

show for our parents, but also our student body,”

players played a bigger outcome in the game the

said Junior captain Ethan Lake.

team is a machine that needs all parts to run

Senior captains Brandon Cuevas and Alex Simi

smoothly. The offensive line relies on the

both agreed that this being there last and final

quarterback to make the correct call influencing

highschool homecoming game it pressures them

they’re blocking assignments. The qb relies on

a lot more to play the best that they can. The

them to deliver blocks so he can make his reads

overall outcome of the game being a 41-20 Win

and deliver the ball, his receivers rely on him to

warmed

deliver the ball to the proper spot. The offense as a

their

hearts

as

it

was

the

only

homecoming the class of 2020 won.

whole relies on the defense to make stops and get

As a whole the team played lights out, on both sides of the ball they were competing, battling for the ball or pushing for one or two extra yards

them the ball back to they can put some points on the board.

A win for the team is a win for the school, this

every play. Damian Lloyd a starting corner on

one meaning that much more because it is the

the Diamondback defense had an outstanding

homecoming game. It is a moral boost for the

second half with 5 batt downs. This led to the defense to holding Spring Valley to one touch down in all of the second half.

Another

major

influence

players as well as the entire student body and staff.

A strong win like this one being 41-20 brings a higher sense of accomplishment to the

was

Jacob

Walsh

starting defensive end. He had 2 big sacks back to back forcing a critical punt as well as many tackles for loss and even a batt down of his own.

homecoming dance then any other game or overall record would.

How To: Friendsgiving Written by: Madison Sant

The tradition of Thanksgiving with your family has officially been broken. Instead, the newlyadopted custom, “Friendsgiving”, is on the rise. Whether you want to spend extra time with your friends or can’t make it home to your family, this is a perfect way to celebrate the underrated holiday.

Food Preparing all the food can be tough, get creative! The food does not have to be the traditional Thanksgiving menu, but having a theme is necessary. In your theme, incorporate a certain genre of food. For example, your theme can have Mexican food as the genre. Catering food is perfect too or even ordering a pizza! If you don’t feel like cooking or have the urge to get out of the house, going out to eat is a great idea.

Music Music is always such a good addition to your Friendsgiving. Make a huge playlist with songs you and your friends adore! It can set such a happy mood for a small, personal gathering. If you’re into alternative and indie, it’ll give your party a more subtle vibe. Indie artists like Cigarettes After Sex, Frank Ocean, and Sufjan Stevens. More pop and rap music, will give your party a more upbeat vibe. Popular artists in these genres include Travis Scott, Billie Ellish, Playboi Carti, etc.

Decorations Set the scene. Hang up some cute lights and get some fall decorations. Setting the scene is crucial to your party. Go to your local dollar store and get some little decor to spice your party up. If you aren’t on a budget, Target has very cute fall decorations! Get stuff like, fake leaves, pumpkins, decals on your windows, etc.

Activities Eating isn’t the only thing that should be on the agenda. Activities like painting, white elephant, games, and maybe baking dessert. You can play board games or card games. Also sentimental activities like writing a letter or making a small scrapbook with your friends.

Out it Other things to incorporate into your Friendsgiving is what you’re gonna wear. Your outfit shouldn’t be based on what you wear on a lazy Monday to school, dress what you would wear out with your friends on a Friday night. Dress for the season. Fall fashion is one of the most popular season for clothes. You can wear converse, turtlenecks, or a flannel.

In this generation, new trends pop up everyday like friendsgiving, its acceptable to stray away from the tradition, and come up with your own. Your party will light up with music, food, and activities to make your friendsgiving memorable.

AUG. 2020, ISSUE 11

GATHER AROUND THE TABLE

Celebrating Thanksgiving Day Our Way

By Kyile Grullon

Thanksgiving. It's the time of the season where turkeys gobble and potatoes are mashed... or so it seems. Friends and family gather into one to not only acknowledge whose dear to their hearts but to spread positivity.

This sentimental holiday differs amongst everyone ranging in how they spend their feast-ful day depending on their traditions and culture.

Straying away from the typical family dinner of eating hamburgers and unlimited french fries with an iced coke, Thanksgiving is the time to break those boundaries. It is the one night where families can have an extravagant meal- the full traditional dish of a nice sage buttered turkey, roasted sweet potatoes with a nice tangy cranberry sauce on the side finishing with the sizzle of sparkling apple cider.

This Thanksgiving tradition does not apply to each family. Focusing on the diversity of Desert Oasis, each student has their own way of celebrating with their family that ties along with their culture.

AUG. 2020, ISSUE 11

Thanksgiving is celebrated in countless

For senior, Kainoa Macusi, who is Native Hawaiian says his culture is very respectful of one another. The main focus is family bonds aside

ways. It can either be a simple family dinner with turkey and potatoes, or the night can be

from what one families provide for. On

uplifted through one's family gatherings. The

Thanksgiving, his family has a get together

small traditions such as dancing and karaoke

including their family friends. display one's family close relationships and that

Their dinner table is decorated by being covered up in leaves and having a small rice bowl for each sitting. Rather than using plates, they spread their

is what leads for one to be thankful for.

"Thanksgiving isn’t about just eating a

food across the whole table in which everyone is

certain meal, bur rather what can one family do

welcomed to sit and grab.

with the time they can spend with each other,"

After dinner, it’s only necessary for Kainoa and

Aria expressed.

his family to follow through with karaoke. It’s a family tradition.

Pushing forth, Aria Osmani who is Afghani, she

celebrates

American

Thanksgiving

culture,

yet

the

with

main

a

touch

focus

is

of the

twist her family gives in to it.

Aria’s family gets together at her house to eat the traditional Thanksgiving meal, but their main dish is chicken Kabob originating from Afghanistan. On the flip side of food is where the party begins. Within this party, a dress code is somewhat required. For Aria, outfit consists of a formal dress called Tombaan and a head cover called chaadar.

“My family gathers around and we have a traditional dance with music from our home country,” Aria stated. They celebrate and share the joy of coming together and rather than spending Thanksgiving for one night, her family expands the party into two. This is a result of Aria not being able to spend time with her outside relatives as much; therefore, the party and bonding time is the most important to Aria of those nights.

GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN BY: Staesha Tadeo-Corpuz As the number of musical artists continues to grow each day on platforms like Soundcloud and YouTube, people — especially teenagers — tend to forget the ones who should not be forgotten.

These iconic artists have impacted the music world in their own way, and deserve to always be remembered. As Thanksgiving is around the corner, here are a few artists that we should always be thankful for as time goes on.

WHITNEY HOUSTON Whitney Houston is known for her epic high notes that send shivers down the spines of her listeners. No one could ever do her note in “I Will Always Love You” any justice.

Her lyrics changed the game and made us feel things that, perhaps, we have never felt before. Today, we remember her because of how real she was. Whitney Houston shined in the spotlight with her passionate music, but we also saw how difficult her life had been with troubled marriages and substance abuse. Losing Whitney Houston was one of the hardest things the music industry had ever experienced, but her legacy as a powerhouse singer will never be lost.

ELVIS PRESLEY Elvis Presley and his music are one of a kind, there’s nothing like the feeling of jamming out to his music. If you think of Elvis Presley, you think of dancing your heart out to his rock and roll music.

Although we lost him to a heart attack, his legacy will never be forgotten. Presley’s music shaped the way for rock and roll today. It was, and perhaps still is, the most impactful rock and roll music from the 50s. Today you can hear many covers and renditions of one of his most famous songs, “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

PRINCE Prince Rogers Nelson, known in the music world as Prince, was a singer, song-writer, guitarist, and many more. After Prince passed away from an accidental drug overdose, his music once again skyrocketed up the music charts. Today, he is remembered by people around the world for his ability to play music with a stage presence never seen before. Prince also wore iconic outfits from sparkly purple suits to a simple all black outfit with a cane. His fashion was unique because he took on glam-rock fashion that wasn’t seen by any other artist at that time. Prince’s biggest hit, titled “When Doves Cry,” went number one on the Billboard music charts.

SELENA Known as the Queen of Tejano music, Selena Quintanilla, was shot and murdered by the president of her fan club. Till this day, fans of Selena are still bitter and mad about the murder of such a wonderful human being. She had nothing but love for music, her family, and her fans. Selena became an inspiration to many because of how passionate she had been about making and performing her music. Hearing her songs could get a person up on their feet and shaking their hips with a huge smile on their face, it just brought a happiness that was really pleasant. Not only did Selena make fabulous music, but she had a marvelous clothing line that was elegant and dashing.

The way he transformed his songs into life was the greatest thing that his fans could have ever witnessed.

Honorable Mention: TUPAC Makaveli, otherwise known as the infamous Tupac Shakur, was one of the biggest rappers that left this world too early. Tupac’s real name at birth is Lesane Parish Crooks. Before becoming a great rapper, Tupac already had been writing poetry. The lyrics in his songs like “Changes” speak his truth, and how he felt about life in this world. In the “gangsta” rap world, nobody did it like Tupac. Although, his life had involved violence and many rivals with other musical artists like Biggie Smalls, he was an inspiration to many and still is. In his life, he had sold over 75 million records worldwide. Tupac was only 25 years old when old rivalry caught up with him, and he was shot and murdered in Las Vegas.

IT'S OKAY THEY'LL THROW IT AWAY

The thankless job of custodians

by Felix Ly

The custodian - the forgotten job of a school staff. When people think of

Being a custodian isn't always miserable

custodians they picture a person cleaning a messy floor all day. Margaret Cryler is one of our many custodians here at DO. She’s been a part of this school ever since it opened, and while most people have seen her, most couldn’t tell you her name.

The custodians get many gifts from other people in the staff as well from STUCO. The other staff once brought in seven boxes of pizza and soda for the

“When kids don’t clean up after themselves, especially freshman,” Cryler said.

The trash left by students makes her job very difficult sometimes. You can imagine how much time and energy it takes to clean. She would like to have

custodians. Ms. Miller and STUCO

more recognition from the students because she believes that we are grown-up

also brought in doughnuts for them.

enough to clean up after ourselves; We are not in kindergarten

The art teacher, Ms. Watson, also

anymore.

brings gifts such as bagels throughout

“Freshman I understand because they are still learning,” Cryler says,

the school year. On National Custodian

“Sophomores should know better.”

day a lot of staff members showed their

As students grow older, she wants them to be more responsible for their

gratitude. STUCO is one of the biggest

own food and garbage. Freshmen have their own excuses as they are still

compliment givers to the custodians.

young.

STUCO gets very high praise from

However the expectations for sophomores, juniors, and seniors are set

high. Making her job easier would be beneficial for us ,as students and for

Margaret Cryler. "STUCO is very nice

her.

and shows gratitude always," Cryler

Margaret has 15 years of experience and has been here before the school

said. As students the least we could do

even opened. She even has her name on the plaque of the snake statue in the

is say a thank you every once and a

front of the school. So, as a school, we should try to help out and clean up to

while

make her job easier.

The Drink That Causes Tension

Pumpkin Spice is not as Phenomenal as it Seems

By Evelyn Garcia

If I break it down based on flavor alone I would say pumpkin is something that is a hit or miss kind of thing. Also, as for when

I don’t mean to be a bummer, but I think the pumpkin spice craze around this time of year is pretty overrated. I mean sure, it goes with the warm and cozy feeling of the season, but at the same time, what if it was a different kind of fruit or vegetable that just happened to be that orange hue? It could easily be replaced with something else. Pumpkin spice isn’t all that special: it doesn't contain the wow factor.

Now, the taste maybe pleasant and somewhat average, but it’s not the one limited time drink that's worth the drive. Don't get me wrong, I am one to enjoy pumpkin-pie during

every coffee shop and bakery is surrounding their menus around the idea of a pumpkin fall type of aspect it's really hard to be dead on. It’s also very difficult to find that perfect pumpkin spice mix in any food or drink.

It may just be based on my own personal experience, but I've never tried the perfect pumpkin spice latte. Pumpkin spice is a very tricky thing because it could either be too strong to the point where it's barely edible or not strong enough to the point where you can barely even tell its pumpkin.

My mind is not completely fixated on the fact that I hate

Thanksgiving but all the foods that have been created purely

pumpkin spice flavored things because if I were to find a

based off of pumpkin spice just seems excessive and kind of

pumpkin spice latte that had just the right touch, I suppose my

ruins the whole concept of having that special flavor one time a

opinion would beg to differ. Although as of now, I'll just stick to

year.

what I know based off experience until I am proven otherwise.

Stepping Into the Unknown

By Christian Manri uez

Pumpkin spice lattes: the epitome of fall — and, yet, I had gone 16 years of my life without it. Going into this taste-testing endeavor, I truly thought this was going to be a positive experience. After all, everyone likes Pumpkin Spice Lattes, right? Wrong. I had never been so wrong.

First off, the drink itself smells like a Yankee Candle. You know, the overpriced candles that your parents buy for Christmas? The pumpkin spice latte smells like an edible, budget version of that. On my ride home, the smell seeped through the paper cup and into my very tiny car, making me nauseous. This probably should have been my first red flag, but clearly I didn’t pay any attention to that.

Like a proper taste-tester, I waited until I was in the comfort of my own home to try the sweet-smelling, calorific drink. I think, deep down, my fear of trying new things was preventing me from tasting it the moment I got it. The whole idea made me unnecessarily nervous. Would I like it? Did I just spent five dollars for nothing?

However, when the big moment finally happened, it was a bit of a let down. The taste itself was confusing. It was metallic, but sweet; Gross yet addicting. I wanted more, yet I hated the taste it left in my mouth. I tried to convince myself the taste got better with time, but really it just tasted best when you weren’t thinking about it. The syrupy, cinnamon concoction was a lot to handle, especially in the grande size. This was not my ideal fall celebration.

Would I try it again? Probably not. However, I am relieved that I’m now apart of the 90% of the population who have tasted a Pumpkin Spice Latte. Though, maybe next time I’ll just stick to my regular starbucks order.

The Spice That Kicks In

By Abbey Steinman

Pumpkin spice: an essential fall staple. Now, everybody knows

once

autumn

rolls

around,

fall

traditions

and

festivities is highly craved for. The cravings of wanting to go to the pumpkin patch, carve pumpkins, and eat pumpkin pie is what rules our brains; however, a pumpkin spice latte is what defeats all.

The marvelous drink describes the season like no other.

Everyone loves fall. Everyone loves pumpkins. Everyone loves coffee. So, that pretty much means everyone loves pumpkin spice… right? It's a drink that's worth getting to keep you warm and your taste buds on edge.

For those who care to disagree, Pumpkin spice is what rules the season. People tend to bash the drink because of the memes and jokes surrounding it, but they’re simple mad to see a drink prosper this much. To pull up to your favorite coffee shop, order your first pump spice latte of the season, is

a

different

experience.

It’s

a

drink

that's,

of

course,

seasonal; therefore, the pressure is on to get as many cups that you can handle.

Not to mention, the drink itself barley contains pumpkin.

If you've never tried pumpkin or carved a pumpkin, its known to not have the sweet taste and a flattering smell... A pumpkin

spice

latte

can

give

you

the

experience

of

somewhat enjoying a pumpkin without eating or being near a pumpkin.

Nonetheless, the drink is simply a drink. It's not mean tp be the best in the coffee universe. It's meant to set the feel for the season, and pumpkin spice achieves that.

02

ISSUE 2 DESERT ILLUSTRATED 2019

DESERT ILLUSTRATED THE MONTH THAT ACKNOWLEDGES EPILEPSY November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month which focuses on the awareness and education of epilepsy by: McKenna Bishop Tragedy struck when beloved actor, Cameron Boyce, suddenly died last summer. It was shocking for many people seeing someone who they felt they grew up with disappear from their lives. His official cause of death was a seizure as a result of his epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a widespread chronic non communicable disease that affects approximately three and a half million people in the United States alone. November is National Epilepsy Awareness month, a month dedicated to promoting education about and the diagnosis of epilepsy.

According to nurse Jennifer Budzinski, seizures here at school are very common. There are about twenty-five students at Desert Oasis with epilepsy. In fact, a few weeks ago a student did have a

IF THE STUDENT NEXT TO YOU HAS A SEIZURE...

seizure in class.

“We were about to do a worksheet when this girl started to feel really tired, so her friend was going to take her to the nurse.

Then she started shaking and fell to the ground,” sophomore, Campbell Yi said.

This happened in Campbell’s first class of the day. As she

With epilepsy being such a widespread issue it is important to know what to do if someone in your class has a seizure.

1. TELL YOUR TEACHER The most important thing to do once you have realized the person next to you is having a seizure is to alert your teacher. Do this as

looks back Campbell realized how unprepared her class really was.

“I was really confused because I’ve never seen someone have a seizure. I didn’t even really know she was having a seizure,” Campbell said, “I was just really confused as to why she was on the ground."

Despite the disease’s prevalence, many people are unprepared when it comes to helping someone having a seizure. Campbell remembers whipping her head around as she heard people moving

quickly as possible. Don’t raise your hand or stand at the teacher’s desk for five minutes.

It’s an urgent situation that needs to be handled as such.

2. KEEP YOUR COOL Although it can be scary to see a friend in this state you must remain calm. Handle the situation urgently, but don’t freak out. Running around and screaming will only make the situation worse.

their desks away in a panic.

3. TAKE A STEP BACK

“My teacher didn’t really know what to do. She kind of just stood there. She called the nurse and ushered us out of the room. She was in shock too. She was freaking out.”

Give the person some space.

Usually the teacher will have you

The student who had the seizure was fine, but this story is proof as to why Epilepsy Awareness month is important. The

evacuate the room, and if they do this follow their directions.

purpose of this month is to educate people on epilepsy and to promote diagnosis to someone who is questioning if they have it.

However, if they do not usher your classmates out of the room and leave. This is for your and the person’s safety as well as giving people who can help easier access.

4. BE CONSIDERATE Having a seizure in front of your classmates can be a humiliating and traumatic experience. It is important to act with empathy in this situation. When out in the halls, don’t be obnoxious or

"A seizure seems scary, but it's not that big of deal because you know they will happen."

Epilepsy can kill. Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, or SUDEP, is rare, but fatal. It affects about one in one thousand people. The cause is unknown, which is why being aware of

making jokes. Just be calm and considerate.

If you're the only one there...

1. Protect their head

epilepsy and prepared for seizures is important.

Being aware of and educated on epilepsy could save

If the person falls you're

someone’s life. Knowing what to do in the event of a seizure

going to need to protect their

could save someone’s life. Wear purple this November to show support for epilepsy awareness.

head. This way they don't sustain any serious injuries.

If a student in your How con ident are you class had a seizure, how in your knowledge on prepared do you feel? epilepsy? somewhat confident 20%

2. Turn them on their side This will prevent them from choking if they start to foam.

3. DO NOT HOLD THEM This could cause them further injury or could hurt you. As stated above just turn them on their side.

4. Get help If you're at school find a teacher or an adult. If you're somewhere else activate EMS

somewhat prepared 100%

not at all confident 80%

by calling 911.

Excuse Me MomI Mean Ms.

The insider to being a teachers kid

Just another Friday for Mr. Dinkel and his son Trajan.

By Keira Glass Pulling in the schools parking with your parents to get dropped off is one thing, but for your parents to come inside with you to their classroom is another. It’s not an occurring thought to have your parent teach your peers or other students, let alone your peers knowing

Pushing forth, people want their own identity. Yet, with your parents being teachers, they could share their stories about you that would give the whole class a laugh. This means these stories is now the focal point for when people see you. They will often think and create a persona that could surround you as a result to get an imagine of you. Parker Welch, freshman, can agree to this.

"They think they know me."

who your parents are.

For sophomore Elizabeth Seibel, she enjoys having her dad be a well known teacher. She believes she has quite the benefits compared to everyone.

"One thing I know I can definitely count on is

Parker also believes that having your parent be a teacher is a good thing rather than bad. He enjoys

having a ride to school. Having my dad working at my

having a classroom he can always go to and always

school allows me to know I’ll have a ride there and

having something to eat or drink. Yet, aside from these

back at all times. I get to ride along with my dad and

perks,

not have to worry about taking the bus,” Elizabeth stated.

While there are some advantages of your parents working at your school, there’s also a handful of disadvantages. Teachers are at the school long before

“It’s not fun having every story about you been know when you weren't aware of it. Everyone in school knows who I am and it feels like a bad thing, no one really knows me,” stated Parker.

As for the questions of whether or not is it weird to

the day starts, therefore, they leave their house when the

see your parent in the middle of the hallway, Parker

early bird gets the worm. This means that if their kids

rather sees no shame. If anything, he’s more than happy

want a ride, well then they must rise and shine at the

to see his mom little throughout the day.

same time.

“Downfall is that I have to get up early because my

TAKE A PEEK AT WHAT'S INSIDE:

Get to know the new

“I don’t see a problem in stopping by to say hi or just

lunch lady - 3

a quick wave. Seeing my mom waving at me doesn’t

dad has to be at school early. In all, it would be nice to

feel any different than it is to wave to a friend,” Parker

sleep in and stay cozy in my bed,” Elizabeth expressed.

gladly stated.

OCTOBER 2019 | DOHS

GRADUATING JUST BECAME 50% EASIER

WRITTEN BY JULIAN ROMO

For many students, the new grading system is the best thing that ever happened to them. However, teachers were not looking forward to this new addition. This new rule means students will be receiving, at a minimum, 50% on every assignment. Many believe that this rule was implemented to make it easier for students to “catch up” if they miss or fail any assignment.

Mr. Dinkel, a math teacher at Desert Oasis, was not happy when he found out about this new grading system.

“I hate how it makes it so easy for students to pass a class,” said Mr.Dinkel.

This rule was made to encourage struggling students, but instead is rewarding bad behavior. All students receive half credit on every assignment even if they ditch class or simply don’t do it.

OCTOBER 2019 | DESERT OASIS

"Students aren’t necessarily taking advantage of the rule, but they aren’t trying as hard to complete their assignments compared to last year,” he says.

When hearing about this new rule many students were very intrigued. ”The 50% rule encourages students not to take certain assignments so seriously,” says a student at Desert Oasis, “It puts homework on a back foot for me, I used to stress myself over it but now I focus on things worth more points.”

This is what teachers are most concerned about, students aren’t doing their homework, resulting in bad test scores and many missing assignments. “It might encourage kids to skip school more often as they don’t have to worry about being so far behind,” he says. This is a huge concern, students ditch more frequently because they know that any assignments they might miss will be scored as a 50 percent, barely affecting their grade.

In conclusion, this rule should be

removed for the future of students’ education. Although more students are passing their classes, they aren’t getting enough of the information they need to be successful. Students are doing less work and learning less information, knowing they'll be rewarded with a passing grade.

THE F I NEEDED WRITTEN BY MELISSA PARSONS

"Make an A meaningful."

-Dr. Jennifer Boeddeker

Being Thankful for the Minimum F “Let’s say you start the semester, and you’re

As the school year deepens, students are getting

taking… I don’t know… Russian ‘cause it’s not

more and more relieved for the safety net that

even offered on this campus. You just moved

comprises of the minimum F policy. Our seasoned

here. Your parents got a divorce, and Russian is

principal, Dr. Jennifer Boeddeker, has chosen to

just plain ol’ hard. Right? And you’re not really

implement this newly-adopted policy this year for

diving into the Russian, but you’re like ‘I’m here,

the benefit of both the students and teachers of

and I’ve got other things to worry about because

Desert Oasis.

I’m fifteen and there are other things happening in

The minimum F policy removes the 50 point range

my life.’ And I’m in the band. And I’m also on the

for the letter grade of an F itself. This allows

volleyball team… and all these things, and I miss

students to diminish any thoughts of being 'in too

an assignment. Right? Which is worth 20% of my

deep' or having dug a hole they cannot seem to get

grade. I have a 0,” Dr. Jennifer Boeddeker

out of when getting a questionable grade. By

explained.

removing the 50 points, it is asked that the 10 points you earn at each scale are more meaningful.

"The minimum F has really came in handy in terms of tests. When I bomb a test, I know the worst grade I can get is a 50%," senior, Keaton Fox reasons.

Dr, Boeddeker is the missing puzzle piece to this campus that desperately craves change. Being the founder of the minimum F here at DO, she has created an environment for students to actually want to try for good grades and be held accountable. For teachers, she has made them backtrack their careers and think to themselves, ‘How can I make these students successful?’

“My philosophy of teaching is students who’ve failed, I have failed to teach. It’s on me. My job is to teach you," Boeddeker expressed.

“We are demanding minimum effort. I don’t understand ‘everyone gets a trophy’. I

It is reasonable to believe that this year is statistically significant when analyzing the actual amount of F’s.

The minimum F truly helps the lower 10-15% of students who are struggling, and helps these students gain confidence for success. James Dinkel, the AP Statistics teacher at DO, believes that the minimum F

think there has to be some sacrifice, some kind of effort, and some kind of loss.” -

doesn’t really affect the students in a way many have

Anonymous

rumored it would’ve,

Analyzing it deeply, the minimum F doesn’t necessarily prepare you for college or life. Life teaches you life, we

“The idea of the minimum F, really, if you look at the

as students and young adults are here to learn. The path a

math behind it, it doesn’t affect the majority of the

student might take after high school may significantly

students. The minimum F is a tool to give an opportunity to those students (small percentage) that are struggling for whatever reason, an opportunity to gain success over the semester. One bad, completely blown test won’t necessarily hinder their opportunity to gain

differ from a path another student may take. Boeddeker's main focus is to prepare students to fit under at least 1 of the 3 E's,

“I need to give you three options when you leave my building. You need to be employable, you need to be

credit for that semester,” Dinkel explained.

enlistable, or you need to be enrollable.”

The main argument that comes from the detrimental

Education is a learning process, in which it takes time. In

population of people that oppose the minimum F is that

high school, time is of the essence, the minimum F just

the minimum F can be closely compared to a participation award. Many have seemed to believe that the minimum F allows students who do absolutely

saves you from from wasting it. The minimum F redefines the true meaning of mediocracy and false optimism. It all ties down to the level of mastery of Russian in Boeddekers words,

nothing, to still have a chance at success. The real question being, do they deserve it?

“Whether you turn in an assignment or not is not a reflection on whether you understand Russian. It’s how when you walk out of my class at the end of the year can you have a conversation with me?”